GREAT heights and age are no obstacle to Fred Deakin, who will be plunging from 14,000 feet to mark his 80th birthday - all in the name of charity.

Mr Deakin is preparing for his third sponsored tandem jump at Shotton Airfield, east Durham, since the death of his wife, Mary, from cancer, in 1999.

Mr Deakin, who will raise money for St Cuthbert's Hospice, said: "I feel as fit as when I was 45. You've got to look after yourself. I was anxious when I did my first jump. I know what to expect now."

Since his first jump, Mr Deakin, of Sherburn Village, near Durham City, has worked voluntarily at the airfield.

Airfield owner Ian Rosenvinge said: "Fred is great. He came here to do a jump five years ago and has been here ever since.

"He has been a massive help around the airfield, doing odd jobs and helping out with refuelling the aircraft."

Anyone who would like to sponsor him can contact him on 0191-372 2317 or St Cuthbert's Hospice on 0191-386 1170.